Saturday, January 14, 2006

The theme for 2006 is "Freedom From the Shackles of War, Racism & Poverty."

2006 will be a monumental year as it relates to the struggles for peace and social justice. With the continuing wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and the growing socio-economic crisis in the country, people of conscious need outlets to express their determination to see fundamental changes in our lifetimes. The march and rally on January 16 will provide such an opportunity to connect with other progressive people and to build networks aimed at fostering change.

The growing budget deficit in Detroit, the attacks on the standard of living of working people by the corporate structures, the efforts to outlaw affirmative action in Michigan and the total neglect of hundreds of thousands of our brothers and sisters displaced from New Orleans and the Gulf region, illustrates clearly the necessity of the majority of the population to take control of their own destinies.

We are in need of volunteers to assist us in distributing leaflets, to work as marshalls, assisting the parade puppets and media aides during the march, donating winter clothing items for the outreach programs supporting the homeless, as well as mobilizing people throughout the city of Detroit and the southeastern Michigan region to participate in this historic annual event.

Please join us in building this important event. This is the third consecutive year that a demonstration has been organized to specifically honor the peace and social justice legacy of Dr. King in downtown Detroit. For more information just contact us by telephone, e-mail or regular mail.

Flyers and sponsorship forms for the MLK Day events can be downloaded from the MECAWI website at http://www.mecawi.orgor leaflets are available for pick-up at the Central UnitedMethodist Church information desk located on Woodward avenueat Adams in downtown Detroit.